A new business that is going places, according to the judges. Inspirepac certainly lives up to its name. This specialist packaging firm, which consists of six business, four of which were the former Mondi Packaging Speciality Products Division, has come a long way in the two years since an MBO and now boasts sales of £32m and 230 staff. A customer list that reads like a who’s who of the leading retail, FMCG and beverage brands shows that the firm’s approach has proven successful in the market. The strong 12% year-on-year increase in sales was exceeded by the growth in operating profit as the firm invested in customer service and focused sales on markets that fitted its manufacturing capabilities, which benefited from a £3m investment programme in the latest equipment.

Investing in training is equally important at the firm, with employees undergoing a full range of programmes including NVQs, modern apprenticeships, professional qualifications in accountancy and an MSc.

Inspirepac’s focus on the environment includes ISO 14001 and it works with clients to reduce materials usage and use non-toxic inks and varnishes and recyclable materials.

The firm has also given back to the community, offering work experience to students from local schools and colleges as well as a number of other charitable activities.

For the full run-down of the Excellence Awards 2009 winners, click here.